On June 8 at Ariake Coliseum in Tokyo, Prime Video Boxing 13 was held. In a 10-round bantamweight bout, Japanese national champion and WBA No. 7, WBO/IBF No. 8, and WBC No. 11 ranked Riku Masuda (Teiken) — 7 wins (7 KOs), 1 loss — stepped into the ring. He faced WBA No. 11 contender Michel Banquez (Venezuela), who held a record of 23 wins (15 KOs) and 5 losses.
The 34-year-old Banquez is a former IBO world bantamweight champion. On March 29 (March 30 Japan time), he fought in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he suffered a 0-2 decision loss to Luciano Francisco Baldor (Argentina), who held a record of 21 wins (1 KO) and 4 losses. Despite the defeat, Banquez’s ranking remained unchanged.
With this victory, Baldor entered the world rankings. He was considered a potential opponent for former five-division world champion (including interim titles) Nonito Donaire (Philippines), who is set to make a comeback at age 42. However, Baldor withdrew from the bout due to injury.
In the opening round, Masuda’s left straight landed flush on Banquez’s chin.
Banquez was knocked down as if he had been blown away.
Banquez managed to get back on his feet, but the damage was severe—he staggered and collapsed again, prompting referee Iida to count him out.
The KO came at 1 minute and 27 seconds of the first round.
Trainer Yamato wore a satisfied expression as he celebrated his protégé’s impressive victory. Having also coached former WBC world bantamweight champion Shinsuke Yamanaka, Yamato explained the difference between the two fighters’ punching styles:
“Yamanaka’s punches concentrated power on a single point, like an ice pick. Masuda’s punches, on the other hand, deliver force from any angle—like being slashed with a sword.”
“When it landed perfectly, I could really feel it. I believe I’m fully prepared to challenge for a world title anytime. Anyone, anywhere, anytime—I’m ready,” said Masuda.
Trainer Yamato added his support, saying, “If he gets a world title shot, I believe he’ll take it with a single blow.”
Teiken Gym chairman Akihiko Honda also commented, “Masuda has what it takes to challenge for a world title.”
Masuda’s only loss came by decision to Seiya Tsutsumi (Kadoebi), now the WBA bantamweight champion in recess, who holds an undefeated record of 12 wins (8 KOs) and 3 draws. Masuda expressed no hesitation about a rematch: “He’s the only one I’ve lost to. I definitely want to get revenge.”
The world bantamweight division is currently centered around Japanese fighters. While Masuda may have to wait a little longer for his turn, his opportunity will surely come. Fans can look forward to him capturing a world title with his razor-sharp left hand.
It would be exciting if Masuda’s first shot at a world title turns out to be a revenge match against Seiya Tsutsumi (Kadoebi), the WBA bantamweight champion in recess!
Trainer Yamato, who also coached former WBC bantamweight world champion Shinsuke Yamanaka, is surely fueled by passion for the rise of a “second Yamanaka”!
This article has been translated and published with permission from BOXING MASTER.
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